September - October 2026
FREE EVENTS
Seniors Festival
Welcome! There’s always something happening at Kingston Libraries, and our September and October program highlights the many ways our libraries bring people together. In October we celebrate Seniors Festival, and it’s great to see such a fantastic range of activities and events on offer for our older residents. From talks and author conversations to sessions focused on wellbeing, technology, food and finances, there are plenty of opportunities to learn something new, meet others and enjoy some time together. There’s plenty more to discover across our libraries too. September brings Dementia Action Week, with author Sean Wilson joining us to talk about his moving novel You Must Remember This, while bestselling author Matilda Boseley will share insights from her latest book, The ADHD Brain Buddy.
King Con returns in October for one of our biggest library events of the year, celebrating fandom, creativity and pop culture. Young people can also make use of a dedicated study space at Parkdale Library, while families can enjoy a range of Halloween and school holiday activities. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, meet people, enjoy an event or simply find your next good read, I encourage you to explore this latest edition of What’s On and make the most of your local library. I look forward to seeing you at one of our Kingston Libraries soon. Cr Georgina Oxley Mayor, City of Kingston
The City of Kingston acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and pay respects to their Elders past and present.
Library Letters Enjoy a mindful break and boost your brain health with our fun word puzzle. Find as many words as you can using a circle of 9 letters. Every valid word must contain the central letter, use only available letters, and be at least 4 letters long.
9 LETTER WORD:
I A
E H
P
S N
P S
2 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
matilda boseley the adhd brain buddy
Cheltenham Library Wednesday 9 September 6:30pm - 7:30pm Join Matilda in conversation as she discusses her book, The ADHD Brain Buddy, a practical guide filled with tips, activities and science-backed insights. It helps readers get through challenging days, make the most of good days, and build the emotional foundations for lasting wellbeing. From the bestselling author of The Year I Met My Brain comes a practical workbook created for adults with ADHD. Packed with useful tools and strategies, it is designed to make everyday life easier. Matilda Boseley knows from personal experience that the toughest days are often the ordinary ones. Navigating adult life in a neurotypical world can be exhausting and overwhelming. Bookings required.
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Events
The Reading Crowd
Cheltenham Library Saturday 5 September 10:30am – 1:30pm
Gr ab a boo k. En joy a cof fee. Jo in the crow d.
FRE E COFFE E
Readers and introverts unite for a quiet community event where all you need to do is enjoy our cosy space at Cheltenham Library and read amongst others. Good books, good coffee, good vibes. Attendees get a FREE coffee (or hot drink) when borrowing a book on the day. Not a Kingston Libraries Member yet? No worries – you can join up on the day by chatting with one of our friendly staff and be ready to borrow your first item right away.
Biketober 2026 Launch World Car Free Day Cheltenham Library Tuesday 22 September 12pm – 1:30pm
bike tune-ups, e-bike displays, local cycling groups, inspiring stories and light refreshments.
Spring is here - let’s get rolling with Biketober!
Whether you're a regular rider or haven't hopped on a bike in years, come along, meet fellow riders and get ready for a month
Celebrate the launch of this fun, friendly bikeriding challenge with free
of cycling, community and great prizes. Register today and join the ride!
4 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
FIN D O U T AB O U T B MO RE IKE TOB E R lovetoride.net/australia
History of Football
with Russell Holmesby Chelsea Library Tuesday 15 September 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Packed with history, rivalry and local pride, this is a must for anyone who loves the game.
Footy fans, this one’s for you! Get into Finals Fever with football historian Russell Holmesby as he unpacks the origins of the AFL and the game’s remarkable journey from a suburban competition to Australia’s biggest sporting code. Discover how footy in 1897 compares with the game we love today. Hear the stories behind the long-standing connection between St Kilda Football Club and Moorabbin.
Footy books
Australia's Game Multiple Authors
The Football War Xavier Fowler
The Norm Smith Medallists Dan Eddy
Australian Football's 100 Year Club Andrew Clarke | 5
Sean Wilson
You Must Remember This
Cheltenham Library Tuesday 22 September 6:30pm - 7:30pm Join Melbourne author Sean Wilson for a special in conversation event exploring his moving second novel, You Must Remember This, and its themes of memory, identity, family and dementia.
Shortlisted for the 2026 Miles Franklin Literary Award and The Age Book of the Year Fiction Award, You Must Remember This is a deeply human story about remembering, belonging and connection. Written from the perspective of Grace, a woman living with dementia, the novel offers a powerful insight into the experience of memory loss and its impact on communities. Inspired in part by Sean’s own experience witnessing his grandmother’s journey with dementia, the book invites readers to see the world through Grace’s eyes. Bookings essential.
Dementia Action Week
September 21 – 27
“It’s time to talk about dementia.” Dementia Australia is encouraging all Australians to start
conversations with family, friends, colleagues and communities. Because change starts with a conversation. When we talk about dementia, we build understanding, reduce stigma, and create more support for everyone affected.
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Find information, resources and support here:
dementia.org.au
AUTHOR TALK Matt Haig The Midnight Train Monday 7 September 7pm - Livestream From the comfort of your own home, enjoy a great author talk online. This zoom event will feature bestselling author Matt Haig and Natasha Boyd for a live discussion and Q & A. Presented by BorrowBox, it’s accessible and easy. Ask us how. Join us as Matt discusses his latest story, The Midnight Train – a companion piece to his beloved story of fate, second-chances, and sliding-doors moments, The Midnight Library.
SC A N T REGISTE O R!
HARPIST
Katia Mestrovic Cheltenham Library Sunday 20 September 2:30pm - 4pm Enjoy an enchanting Sunday afternoon of harp music for Classical Music Month.
Award-winning harpist Katia Mestrovic performs a vibrant program as part of the Australian Harp Fest: Solo Concert Series, featuring works by Australian women composers and harpist-composers.
inspired music, this unique concert promises to delight and inspire.
Showcasing the remarkable versatility of the modern harp through contemporary classical, jazz, and globally | 7
Get ready for King Con! Cosplay 101 Cheltenham Library Saturday 19 September 12:30pm - 1:30pm Ready to level up your fandom? Step into the colourful world of cosplay just in time for King Con 2026!
Join a panel of experienced cosplayers as they share insider tips, creative hacks and behind-the-scenes stories from the cosplay community.
Whether you're curious, crafty or already dreaming up your next costume, this fun and beginner-friendly event is the perfect place to start.
Learn how to choose your first character, create amazing looks on a budget, and uncover the best thrifting finds for bringing your favourite characters to life.
Bookings required.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME, NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED.
3D printing workshop Cheltenham Library Tuesday 15 September 4pm - 5pm Design and 3D print your own King Con-inspired creation, then watch it come to life! Our friendly team will guide you every step of the way in this fun, beginner-friendly workshop for ages 8–15.
Ask Chelt for a 3D print – KING CON style
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COMICS, GAMES & POP CULTURE FREE! ALL AGES EVEN
T
CHELTENHAM LIBRARY
Saturday 3 October 10am to 4pm
Keep an eye out for the full program of events! For more information Online library.kingston.vic.gov.au/kingcon Phone 1300 135 668 In person at any library branch
DRESS UP & JOIN THE FUN! | 9
connect Cheltenham Library Friday 9 October 2pm - 3:30pm Join Melbourne Cheltenham Library artist and educator Friday 9 October Jason Penfold for a 2pm - 3:30pm captivating journey into the hidden Join Melbourne artist and beauty thePenfold insect educatorof Jason for a captivating journey world, where science, into the hidden beauty art and nature of the insect world, come together. where science, art and nature come together.
Jason's love of the natural world was inspired by his grandmother, who introduced him to the family tradition of lapidary and afternoons spent searching for semi-precious stones. Those treasured memories sparked a lifelong passion. In this fascinating presentation, Jason shares the story behind his unique artistic practice, revealing how natural
history, personal storytelling and intricate craftsmanship combine to create his extraordinary works. A curated selection of Jason’s pieces will be on display, followed by an engaging Q&A session. Perfect for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
Please note: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+
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t create Seniors Festival
Eat Well, Age Well
with Joel Feren Cheltenham Library Thursday 15 October 10:30am - 12pm
Ageing well is not about restriction; it’s about nourishment, strength and enjoying the foods you love. Join Accredited Practising Dietitian Joel Feren for an engaging and uplifting presentation exploring how everyday food choices can support a healthier, more active life. Discover how the right foods can support muscle strength, brain health, energy and long-term vitality. Joel will share evidence-based tips, along with simple meal ideas and inspiration to help you feel confident making choices that nourish your body and fit your lifestyle. This session will show ways to eat well, boost your energy and stay independent - without giving up the foods you love.
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create ce AI in Everyday Life Presented by ReadyTechGo
Wellbeing and Financial Literacy
Cheltenham Library Friday 23 October 11am - 12:30pm
Boost your wellbeing. Build your confidence. Take control of your finances.
Whether you're brand new to AI or simply want to know what all the buzz is about, this welcoming session is the perfect place to start. Discover how tools like ChatGPT can help with everyday tasks, explore the benefits and limitations of AI, and learn practical tips for staying safe online. Just bring your curiosity!
Clarinda Library Monday 26 October 2pm - 3:30pm
Pick up simple budgeting tips, explore ways to support your wellbeing, and learn about services available in your community. Enjoy a fun quiz, gentle chair-based movement and plenty of opportunities to connect with others. Leave feeling informed, empowered and inspired with useful tools for everyday life.
Ready, set, count!
The Great Aussie Bird Count is back from 19 - 25 October, and everyone, young and young at heart, is invited to join the fun. Spend just 20 minutes spotting and recording the birds around you while helping protect Australia’s amazing birdlife. Not sure where to start? Watch Sean Dooley, a familiar face from his past Kingston Libraries appearances, as he talks you through everything you need to know.
Book now and invest in your wellbeing.
Please note: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+
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Click here to get involved and join the flock!
celebrate Seniors Festival
Brigid Carrick in Conversation: The Belfast Express Cheltenham Library Thursday 29 October 2pm - 3:30pm Hear local author Brigid share the inspiration behind her novel, The Belfast Express, her experiences as a writer, and the stories that have influenced her work.
The Belfast Express explores the harsh social realities of Ireland at a time when women faced significant restrictions and limited choices. Through the story of Brianna Robinson and her three friends, Brigid examines courage, friendship, and the determination to challenge the systems that shaped women’s lives. Born, raised, and trained as a nurse and midwife in Dublin, Brigid
emigrated to Australia and continued her career in healthcare and education in Melbourne. Her experiences, along with her passion for storytelling, have shaped a writing career that includes twelve published short stories and her first novel. Content Warning: This event may include discussion of events and circumstances people may find distressing.
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t c e n n o c Seniors Festival
Regular Library Programs
Celebrate new skills, new friendships and new experiences with our free community activities. You’re warmly welcome to join any of the following drop-in sessions:
DROP SESSIO-NISN !
Book Chatters
Chess Club
Tea & Craft
Enjoy lively discussions and discover great new books.
Chess sets are ready and waiting - bring a friend or make a new one across the board.
Enjoy hands-on crafting, great company, and a relaxing cuppa.
Chelsea Library Tuesday 22 September Tuesday 27 October 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Clarinda Library Wednesdays 5pm - 7pm
Cheltenham Library Wednesday 23 September Wednesday 28 October 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Westall Library Mondays 10:30am - 11:30am
Social Scrabble Word wizards, play your hand at Scrabble.
Parkdale Library Friday 4 September Friday 2 October 10:30am - 11:30am
Chelsea Library Fridays 1:30pm - 3pm
Unlock the full power of your library card Brain Training Keep your mind active with puzzles, quizzes, and great company. Cheltenham Library Mondays 2pm - 3:30pm Chelsea Library Wednesdays 1:30pm - 2:30pm Dingley Village Library Mondays 11am - 12pm
Dingley Village Library Friday 11 September 2:30pm - 3:30pm Your free library membership gives you access to much more than books. From free eBooks, audiobooks and movie streaming to language learning, tech help and digital newspapers, there’s so much waiting to be explored. Come along and discover the power of your library card.
14 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
I
MY LIBRA
RY
WALK & TALK
Mordialloc SESSION 1
Thursday 1 October 10:30am - 12pm Meeting point: Peter Scullin Reserve sign on Beach Road SESSION 2
Wednesday 28 October 10:30am - 12pm Meeting point: Peter Scullin Reserve sign on Beach Road Please note that these sessions contain the same content.
Step back in time and discover the rich history of Mordialloc and the Kingston coastline on this guided heritage walk. Led by Kingston Libraries’ Heritage Specialist, this easy walk begins at Peter Scullin Reserve and covers less than 500 metres while exploring stories spanning thousands of years. Starting at the Macdonald homestead marker, we'll pause at the beautiful 1925 rotunda for a cuppa and we’ll read a Boon Wurrung story,
Petrie, Mo rdialloc C reek c.1865 Photo by , Christian Capurro.
written down for the first time, after 10,000 years of oral tradition. We’ll finish at the mouth of Mordialloc Creek, talking about the lifecycle of eels and why that matters today. Participants will need to be able to walk 500 metres and climb a set of stairs unaided. • Bring a raincoat/ umbrella for inclement weather • Light refreshments provided. Bookings required.
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Kids Children's Week 24 October - 1 November Celebrate Children's Week with the Kids of Kingston Self-Portrait Wall!
CRAFTY READERS
Read, create and be inspired!
Join us at your nearest Kingston Library and help celebrate the amazing children in our community! Draw a self-portrait on a circle and add it to our Kids of Kingston wall.
This year's Children's Week theme is: "Children have the right to use their own language, celebrate their culture and practise their own religion."
Together, we'll create a colourful display celebrating every child's unique identity.
We can't wait to see your masterpiece and celebrate the wonderful diversity of Kingston's children!
Pick up a themed take-home activity from the library each month. Each Crafty Reader celebrates the world around us, with themes linked to special days, community events, nature and seasonal moments throughout the year.
Borrow the suggested books, enjoy some creative time at home, and bring stories to life through making. We'd love to see what you create - share a photo of your masterpiece and inspire fellow young readers and makers!
Looking for fun on the school holidays? Join us across Kingston for a fantastic line-up of free and low-cost activities for kids, youth and families.
Scan the QR code to explore what’s on!
Pick up a School Holiday Program at your local library or visit our website for all the details.
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Young people
How to Be Normal Ange Crawford
The Foal in the Wire Robbie Coburn
A Murder is Going Down Kate Emery
Darkest Night, Brightest Star Barry Jonsberg
Latest new releases for young people
The Edge of Everything Miranda Luby
Golden Jade Timms
Need somewhere quiet to get things done? High school students can drop in to our Study Space at Parkdale Library, with no bookings required.
YOUTH
STUDY SPACE
Friday 16 October to Friday 13 November Available during all library opening hours Plus, all our libraries offer study desks, public computers and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're studying for exams, finishing an assignment or just looking for a calm space to think, we've got you covered. | 17
Hallow
Mysterious Microbats Cheltenham Library Tuesday 27 October 6pm - 7pm Did you know tiny Indigenous microbats are living and feeding right here in our local neighbourhood?
populations, support biodiversity, and contribute to a thriving local environment. Bust some bat myths, and gain a new appreciation for these amazing nighttime neighbours!
Discover the secret lives of these remarkable native species and the important role they play in healthy ecosystems. Find out how microbats help control insect
halloween ScanNCUT Parkdale Library Friday 23 October 10:30am - 12pm Join us for a fun Halloween-themed session and learn how to create spooky cards using the Brother ScanNCut machine. This beginner-friendly presentation will introduce the machine’s features and inspire you to get creative with your own crafting projects. Bookings required.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Brother ScanNCut can scan your drawings and cut them from paper, fabric or vinyl. Available at Parkdale Library, it's easy to use - just bring your materials and start creating!
18 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
ween halloween 3d printing Westall Library Monday 12 October 2:30pm - 3:30pm Ages 16+ Learn how to choose, customise, and print your own spooky 3D creation just in time for Halloween. Our friendly staff will guide you every step of the way, making it easy and fun for beginners to get started with 3D printing.
KIDS DROP IN halloween CRAFT Cheltenham Library Tuesday 27 October 4pm - 5pm Microbat drop in craft for kids including microbat colouring in, mazes, hanging paper bats and flying paper bats, plus stickers.
Bookings required.
spooky storytime with sarah speedie Chelsea Library Saturday 31 October 10:30am - 11:15am Get into the Halloween spirit with a special Storytime featuring local author Sarah Speedie and her delightful picture book, Wild About Halloween. Enjoy a fun and engaging reading of the story followed by a Halloween craft. This interactive session is a wonderful way to celebrate the season through stories, creativity and imaginative play. Bookings are required. Best suited for children aged 3 - 6 years. | 19
New Releases Can't wait for your favourite author's next release? Here's a sneak peek to add to your 2026 reading list.
Find more on the Kingston Libraries App!
I Can't Tell You But I Will Magda Szubanski
Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel Lucy Foley
All Heart Mick Fanning
Hollow Bones Jodi Picoult
The Big Steal Paul Barry
The German Ward Pip Williams
Find more new releases here
The Knave and the Moon Rachel Gillig
The World Beneath Her Feet Holly Ringland
We Chase Shadows Richard Osman
20 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
Regular Programs Enjoy something new at your library! From books and brain teasers to games, crafts and community connections, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Chelsea Library
Cheltenham Library
Westall Library
Book Chatters Tuesday 22 September Tuesday 27 October 6:30pm
Book Chatters Wednesday 23 September Wednesday 28 October 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Tea & Craft Mondays 10:30am - 11:30am
Brain Training Wednesdays 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Brain Training Mondays 2pm - 3:30pm
Borrowbox Information Sessions
Social Scrabble Fridays 1:30pm - 3pm
Clarinda Library
Puzzle Swap Saturday 5 September Saturday 3 October 10am - 12pm Movie Night Tuesday 1 September Tuesday 6 October 6pm Games Night Tuesday 8 September Tuesday 13 October 6:30pm Trivia Night Tuesday 20 October 6pm - Bookings required
Chess Club Wednesdays 5pm - 7pm Dingley Village Library Brain Training Mondays 11am - 12pm Parkdale Library Book Chatters Friday 4 September Friday 2 October 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn tips and tricks to get the most from BorrowBox. Access magazines and newspapers, find latest releases and more. Parkdale Library Thursday 3 September 10:30am – 11:30am Cheltenham Library Tuesday 13 October 10:30am – 11:30am Patterson Lakes Library Thursday 22 October 2:30pm – 3:30pm
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Family History Programs
Family History SEPTEMBER TOPIC: The Ethics of Remembering
Parkdale Library Thursday 17 September 2pm - 3pm Sharing research comes with responsibilities. In this session we’ll cover a range of ethical issues related to family history research and publication: • Citations and sources • Uncovering ‘hidden histories’ • Whose stories should be remembered? • Should some stories be forgotten? • Values and standards of the past • Misinformation
Family History Group is an opportunity to meet other people in your community who are interested in family history research, get access to useful resources, learn from experts and share your findings.
OCTOBER TOPIC:
DNA Testing Parkdale Library Thursday 15 October 2pm - 3pm DNA testing is the latest tool to help family historians uncover their ancestry. In this session, Jenny Coates will lead us through the pros and cons of DNA testing. Jenny has 40 years’ experience in biography, local history and genealogy. She is well versed in the use of DNA in biographical &
genealogical research and also uses these skills to assist adoptees and care leavers to contact relatives. Bookings required.
Bookings required.
22 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026
Scan for more information on Family History
Don’t forget our Digital Library Access a world of information and free resources. Be Connected
LinkedIn Learning
Enjoy easy, step by step courses on internet basics, smartphones, email, social media and online safety, with interactive lessons, videos and printable guides to support online shopping, banking and protecting your privacy safely.
Access lessons in business, software, technology and creative skills
Languagenut
BorrowBox BorrowBox has hundreds of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines & eNewspapers to borrow.
Discover 70+ engaging ESL resources in 20+ languages!
Movie Streaming
Kanopy provides a selection of over 30,000 local, world and award-winning movies, documentaries and informational videos.
Flipster for Choice Magazine Instant access to Choice magazine in an easy-toread digital format.
ComicsPlus
Enjoy unlimited simultaneous access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga—24 hours a day, 7 days a week - on your computer, tablet, or phone. There are no holds, no wait lists, and no limits.
Arrivals in English
Learning English? Arrivals in English will help you: talk to a doctor, order food, find a job and more… All in English! You will watch videos, listen to people talking, and practise asking questions – all with Arrivals in English.
Family history databases available for use in the Library
library.kingston.vic.gov.au/family-history Ancestry Library Edition provides international coverage for England, Scotland, Wales, US and Canada. FindMyPast has an extensive records collection for Australasia, UK, Ireland and US.
View the Digital Library webpage: library.kingston.vic.gov.au/digital-library or scan the QR. Have your library card and PIN handy to be able to connect.
For children’s Digital Library resources click on the Kids tab.
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LIBRARY OPENING HOURS Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
10am-6pm
10am-2pm
2pm-5pm
10am-6pm
10am-6pm
10am-2pm
2pm-5pm
10am-6pm
10am-6pm
10am-2pm
2pm-5pm
Chelsea Library 1 Chelsea Rd, Chelsea 10am-8pm
10am-8pm
1pm-8pm
10am-6pm
Cheltenham Library 12 Stanley Ave, Cheltenham 10am-8pm
10am-8pm
1pm-8pm
Clarinda Library 58A Viney St, Clarinda 10am-8pm
10am-8pm
1pm-8pm
Dingley Village Library 31C Marcus Rd, Dingley Village 10am-2pm
2pm-6pm
Closed
10am-2pm
2pm-6pm
10am-2pm
Closed
10am-6pm
10am-6pm
10am-2pm
Closed
10am-6pm
10am-2pm
2pm-5pm
10am-2pm
10am-2pm
Closed
10am-6pm
Closed
2pm-5pm
Highett Library 310 Highett Rd, Highett 10am-6pm
10am-6pm
Closed
Parkdale Library 96 Parkers Rd, Parkdale 10am-8pm
10am-8pm
1pm-8pm
10am-6pm
Patterson Lakes Library 54 Thompson Rd, Patterson Lakes 2pm-6pm
10am-2pm
Closed
2pm-6pm
Westall Library 35 Fairbank Rd, Clayton South 10am-6pm
10am-6pm
1pm-6pm
10am-6pm
Library Closures Scheduled Closure – Wednesday 16 September Public Holiday – Friday 25 September
PLEASE NOTE: Programs listed in this edition are correct at time of printing. Changes may be made as required. For further information visit library.kingston.vic.gov.au or ph 1300 135 668. Popular events may offer a waiting list. Speak to your friendly library staff for assistance. Some regular library programs run during school terms only. All library branches are closed on public holidays.
TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT CONSIDER GETTING TO OUR EVENTS BY USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT IF AVAILABLE, CAR SHARING, OR WALKING OR CYCLING INSTEAD OF DRIVING. 24 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | September - October 2026